Samuel Wilson (September 13, 1766 – July 31, 1854) was a meat packer from Troy, New York, whose name is purportedly the source of the personification of the United States known as "Uncle Sam".

Samuel Wilson's career role during the War of 1812 is what he is most noted for today. The demand for a supply of meat for the troops had significantly increased. E & S Wilson's location and dock made the business ready and ideal.

Secretary of War William Eustis made a contract with Elbert Anderson Jr. of New York City to supply and issue all rations necessary for the United States forces in New York and New Jersey for one year. Anderson ran an advertisement on October 6, 13, and 20 looking to fill the contract. E & S Wilson secured the contract for 2,000 barrels of pork and 3,000 barrels of beef for one year. The business held a staff of 200 men during this period.

Samuel Wilson was appointed meat inspector for the Union Army. His duties included checking the freshness of meat and assuring that it was properly packaged and that the barrels were according to specification.

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